For many travelers, Canada’s vast northern frontier holds an irresistible attraction as a Canadian working holiday destination. From the surreal dance of the aurora borealis to the seemingly endless summer days of the midnight sun, the Yukon and Northwest Territories (NWT) offer some of Earth's most spectacular natural experiences. But what if you could do more than just visit? If you are an adventurous individual on a Canadian Working Holiday, these territories present a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to live and work in a place unlike any other.

This guide offers insights into securing a Canadian working holiday job in Canada's Yukon and NWTs, where the magical Northern Lights and the unique Midnight Sun.

Why Choose the North For Your Working Holiday in Canada?

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The Yukon and NWT aren’t typical working holiday destinations, which makes them unique. Here are some compelling reasons to head north:

The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis)

This breathtaking natural light display is a significant draw for visitors to the high-latitude regions. The aurora creates vibrant curtains of light that dance across the night sky. Colors range from pale green and yellow to red, blue, and violet.

Best Time to See

The prime viewing season for the Northern Lights in the Yukon and NWT is during the dark winter months, generally from mid-November to the beginning of April. Long hours of darkness and clear skies provide optimal conditions. Late summer to early autumn can also offer chances to witness the aurora.

Key Viewing Locations

While the aurora can sometimes be seen from communities, venturing away from city lights significantly improves the viewing experience. Popular locations include Whitehorse, Dawson City in Yukon, and Yellowknife in the NWT.

The Midnight Sun

In contrast to the long, dark winters, the summer months in the Yukon and NWT experience the "Midnight Sun," a period when the sun remains visible at midnight. This occurs because of the Earth's tilt on its axis.

Best Time to Experience

The Midnight Sun is most prominent around the summer solstice (June 20th or 21st). The duration of continuous daylight increases as you travel further north. In the Yukon, the effects of long daylight hours are noticeable from late April to mid-August, with true 24-hour daylight occurring roughly from mid-May to mid-July in some areas. In the NWT, communities north of the Arctic Circle can experience the midnight sun for several weeks or months.

Unique Experiences

The extended daylight hours offer incredible outdoor activities at any time of day or night, including hiking, canoeing, fishing, and exploring. Some communities host special events and festivals to celebrate the Midnight Sun.

Working Holiday Opportunities in the Yukon and Northwest Territories (NWT)

Seasonal work dominates in the North due to extreme winters and short summers. Here’s a breakdown of the most common and accessible working holiday jobs, with National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes and annual average salaries from Canada’s Job Bank.

Tourism and Hospitality

The North’s tourism industry thrives in both winter and summer. From Aurora viewing lodges to adventure tour companies, enthusiastic staff are always needed. Employers seek seasonal staff for roles such as front desk agents, servers, tour guides, and housekeeping personnel to accommodate the influx of visitors during the Northern Lights and Midnight Sun periods.

Tourism and Hospitality NOC 2021 Annual Average Salaries (CAD)
Servers and Bartenders 64301 52,019.84
Tour Guides (e.g., Aurora tours, Dog sledding, Hiking) 64320 51,962.17
Housekeepers 65310 51,076.05
Front Desk Attendants 64314 48,643.51
Cooks and Kitchen Assistants 65201 43,234.31

Adventure Guiding and Outdoor Work

Working in adventure guidance could be your opportunity if you have a background in outdoor education, guiding, or wilderness survival. The opportunities included in this summer job sector are broad, from providing viewing guides to hiking, canoeing, and wildlife drives. Below is a closer look.

Adventure Guiding and Outdoor Work NOC 2021 Annual Average Salaries (CAD)
Fishing and Hunting Lodge Assistants 60031 102,168.53
Canoe and Hiking Guides 64322 54,060.80
Dog Sled Guides (mushers) 64322 54,038.70
Wildlife Viewing Tour Guides 64320 51,971.17

Construction and General Labour

Construction and general labor jobs are in high demand during the Northern Lights and Midnight Sun. These roles often involve tasks like site preparation, material handling, and assisting skilled tradespeople, making them ideal for physically fit individuals seeking hands-on work. Below is a closer look.

Construction and General Labour NOC 2021 Annual Average Salaries (CAD)
Road Maintenance Crews 75212 72,952.89
Construction Helpers 75110 67,562.42
Landscaping Assistants 85121 54,046.94
General Laborers 95109 51,342.04

Retail and Customer Service

Many communities rely on seasonal retail and customer service workers to meet tourism and local demands. These roles often include working as cashiers, sales associates, or customer service representatives, providing valuable experience in communication and problem-solving. With increased foot traffic during the Northern Lights and Midnight, employers across Northern Canada actively hire temporary staff to meet demand.

Retail and Customer Service NOC 2021 Annual Average Salaries (CAD)
Rental Shop Staff (Bikes, Snowmobiles, etc.) 64100 61,775.95
Cashiers and Retail Associates 65100 41,890.04
Gas Station Attendants 65101 40,532.90

Camp Work and Remote Jobs

Camp work and remote jobs are popular job opportunities in Northern Canada, especially for those who enjoy the outdoors and working with youth. Positions like camp counselors, activity leaders, and kitchen staff are in high demand at both day and overnight camps across Yukon and NWT. Many of these camps are located in remote areas, offering a unique experience away from urban life, often with meals and accommodation included.

Camp Work and Remote Jobs NOC 2021 Annual Average Salaries (CAD)
Drivers 73300 67,553.52
Housekeepers 65310 51,074.36
Camp Cooks 63200 45,934.30
Kitchen Assistants 65201 43,223.17

Qualifying for a Canadian Working Holiday in Canada’s North?

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For most international applicants, participation in a Canadian working holiday program typically falls under the International Experience Canada (IEC) initiative. This program has various streams, including the Working Holiday stream, which allows eligible young adults from participating countries to obtain an open work permit valid for a specific period (usually one or two years). General requirements for IEC Working Holiday include:

  • Age: You must be between 18 and 30 or 35 years old, depending on your country of citizenship.
  • Citizenship: You must be a citizen of a country that has a Working Holiday agreement with Canada.
  • Passport: A valid passport from your country of citizenship.
  • Proof of Funds: You will need to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your initial stay in Canada (currently around 2,500 CAD).
  • Health Insurance: Proof of valid health insurance for the duration of your stay.
  • Admissibility: You must be admissible to Canada (no criminal record, etc.).

Preparing for Your Northern Working Holiday in the Yukon and NWT

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Preparing for a Canadian working holiday in the Yukon or NWT means preparing for a unique adventure filled with extreme weather, remote landscapes, and incredible cultural experiences. Here are some ways you can prepare for your Canadian working holiday in Yukon or NWT.

  • Research: Thoroughly research the Yukon and NWT, including specific communities, job opportunities, cost of living, and climate.
  • Apply for your IEC Work Permit: Start the application process well in advance of your intended travel dates.
  • Save Funds: Ensure you have sufficient funds to cover your initial living expenses, including accommodation and food, until you secure employment.
  • Secure Accommodation: Try to arrange accommodation before you arrive, especially if you plan to live in a smaller community or during peak season.
  • Pack Appropriately: Be prepared for various weather conditions, especially if you plan to work during the winter months. Invest in warm, layered clothing.
  • Be Open-Minded and Flexible: The realities of living and working in a remote northern environment might differ from your expectations. Be prepared to adapt to new situations and be open to various job opportunities.
  • Network: Once you arrive, connect with other travelers and locals to learn about job openings and other useful information.

FAQs

What Are the Key Communities in the North That Have a Working Holiday?

The most popular North working holiday communities are Whitehorse and Dawson City in the Yukon and Yellowknife in the Northwest Territories. These cities offer seasonal job opportunities in tourism, hospitality, retail, and outdoor adventure.

How Can I Find a Working Holiday Job in Yukon or NWT?

You can find Canadian working holiday jobs through online job boards like Yuwin.ca, the Government of Northwest Territories job site, and Job Bank Canada. Tourism websites, Facebook groups, and walking into local businesses with your résumé are also effective.

What Accommodation Options Should I Consider on My Working Holiday in Yukon or NWT?

Accommodation options include employer-provided housing, shared rentals, hostels, or short-term stays in bunkhouses or motels. Seasonal hubs like Dawson City, RV, and camper living are also common among workers during the summer.